Mac News Review

Macs 'Smarter Money' than Windows, a Bamboo Optical Mouse, miniStack v3 Adds SATA and FW 800, and More

This Week's Apple and Desktop Mac News

Compiled by Charles Moore and edited by Dan Knight - 2007.07.13

This Week's Apple and Desktop Mac News

PowerBook, iBook, MacBook, and other portable computing is covered in The 'Book Review.

All prices are in US dollars unless otherwise noted.

News & Opinion

Reviews

Products

iPod News

Software

Desktop Mac Deals

News & Opinion

Mac 'Smarter Money' than Windows PCs

software.silicon.com's Andy McCue reports:

"Property asset management company Capital & Regional is evaluating Linux desktops and Apple Macs as a way to reduce its dependency on Microsoft.

"The company has around 700 PC users and currently runs Windows XP Pro and Office XP Pro but its CIO Richard Snooks has hit out at Microsoft's aggressive licensing policies.

"In an interview with silicon.com, Snooks said: 'We are feeling the pinch of the aggressive revenue targets of Microsoft. We are asking ourselves, "are they [Microsoft] fit for our business?".'"

"Snooks said the browser-based cash tills at Capital & Regional's leisure outlets - which include the Milton Keynes Sno!Zone and The Mall shopping centres - could potentially run on Suse Linux with a Firefox browser, while Apple Macs may be a better alternative to Windows PCs."

Apple's First Handheld: the Newton MessagePad

The Register's James Sherwood reports:

"Forgotten Tech Some say the apple doesn't fall far from the tree and when you consider the history of the PDA, that statement holds many truths.

"While the iPhone looks set to take the market by storm, the HTC S620 and Samsung i600 were good takes on the Blackberry, and the Palm Treo range has long been tested and trusted. The Treo's roots lie in Palm's original Pilot, a product category HP's iPaq range later smartened up.

"But all these gadgets have one thing in common: they base their capabilities and concept on the godfather of PDAs. Although sluggish and bulky by today's standards, the device helped set the tone for PDAs to come.

"It was, of course, Apple's Newton MessagePad. Born in August 1993, the MessagePad was first unveiled at Macworld Boston and was priced at around $699."

Turn Your Mac Into a Telephone

MacInstruct's Matthew Cone says:

"So, there was this phone thing last week, right? And we weren't lucky enough to get in on it, even though we really wanted to. The iPhone is just too friggin' expensive for us. Maybe you're in the same boat: You can't quite bring yourself to pay more than $2,000 over a two-year period for a cell phone. Or maybe you live outside of the United States. Or maybe you own an iPhone, but still want to be able to take and receive phone calls on your Mac.

"That's what this little article is all about. We're about to introduce you to free (or nearly free) software that can help turn your Mac into a telephone. Some of these applications allow you to call other people on their Macs. Other applications allow you to call people's phones. And some applications add silly and sophisticated features to your existing cell phone service.

"Note that none of these applications are a substitute for a real telephone. You cannot make emergency phone calls to 911 with any of these services, so don't disconnect your land line or cell phone just yet."

Core 2 Duo: Intel's Insecurity Blanket

The Register's Dan Goodin reports:

"A prominent software developer with a reputation for making waves in coding circles is doing it again - this time warning that Intel's celebrated Core 2 Duo is vulnerable to security attacks that target known bugs in the processor.

"Discussion forums on Slashdot and elsewhere were ablaze with comments responding to the claims made by Theo de Raadt, who is the founder of OpenBSD. Intel strongly discounted the report, saying engineers have thoroughly scanned the processor for vulnerabilities.

"In it he warns that errata contained in the Intel processor is susceptible to security exploits that put users and enterprises at serious risk of being compromised. The exposure can exist even in cases where Intel has issued a fix, de Raadt said, because patches in the microcode frequently don't get installed on systems purchased from smaller vendors or that run less popular operating systems...."

Reviews

8-core Mac Pro 'a Potentially Vital Purchase'

Macworld UK's Mark Hattersley reports:

"Apple hasn't looked back since it switched from PowerPC to Intel-based processors. Not only is the Mac Pro the fastest desktop computer on the market, it also sports Apple's famous design and build quality. More importantly, it's substantially cheaper than rival Windows-based units.

"In fact, it's hard to see why the Mac Pro isn't flying off the shelves. But take-up has been relatively slow, with the more stylish iMac and MacBooks topping the charts, while the Mac Pro hovers around.

"One reason might be the previous lack of native Adobe software on the Mac platform. It may be that many users had stuck with the older G5 units for professional design until the Creative Suite ran natively on the Mac. Now that Creative Suite 3 is out and native Intel performance is in place, the Mac Pro has gone from interesting to look at, to a potentially vital purchase.

"And what better way to celebrate than with this. The new Mac Pro sports two 'Clovertown' 3.0 GHz Quad-Core Intel Xeon 5300 series processors. The 8-core Mac Pro comes with 8 MB of L2 cache per processor (16 MB total), 667 MHz DDR2 ECC fully buffered DIMM memory, eight FB-DIMM slots on two memory riser cards (four slots per card) supporting up to 16 GB of main memory and 1.33 GHz, 64-bit dual independent frontside buses."

Products

Eco Friendly Bamboo Optical Mouse

Bamboo optical mouseThis environmentally friendly Bamboo optical mouse combines technology with nature. The components on the cover are made entirely of bamboo.

The electronic components are lead free and comply with CE and EU safety approvals. The unique bamboo colour offers a natural beauty and style ideal for homes and offices - an alternative to the usual plastic surround. About Bamboo Bamboo is a grass rather than wood but is harder than oak. Bamboo fibre is stronger than wood and steel.

The Bamboo used in these monitors is made from the Gramineae monocotyledonous plant. This type of plant is hard and panda friendly and as pandas only feed on soft bamboo there is no harm to wildlife. Environmentally friendly - Bamboo is one of the world's fastest growing plants on the planet there are over 1200 species they can regenerate faster than wood and is typically harvested within 6 to 12 months. The growth period of bamboo is short - it will mature in three years.

Bamboo does not require replanting when harvested it has a mature root system that sends up roots for decades so forests are not harmed. Bamboo can be reused decomposed yet it will not generate harmful materials. With a positive impact on our environment Bamboo truly is one of the world's renewable sources. Bamboo also helps reduce carbon dioxide gases and mitigates water pollution due to it's high nitrogen consumption

Manufacturer: playengine

Price in GBP:

  • £18.99 Incl. VAT (EU)
  • £16.16 Excl. VAT (Outside EU)

Approximate equivalents:

  • Euros: €28.04 Incl. VAT (EU)
  • US Dollars: $32.51 Excl. VAT (Outside EU)

Belkin Washable MouseBelkin Washable Mouse Endures Spills and Stays Clean

PR: Belkin's Washable Mouse is a water-resistant mouse that can survive spills and can be hand-washed under the faucet to stay clean and disinfected.

Belkin Washable MouseNew Belkin Washable Mouse endures spills, stays clean, and works on many household surfaces including upholstery and wood.

Washable Mouse (F5L007-SCROLL) - $29.99

Availability: Late August 2007 with launches in Asia, Europe, and Australia to follow.

NewerTech Announces miniStack v3 'Quad Interface' 1 TB Storage Solution

miniStack v3PR: Newer Technology, Inc. (NewerTech) has announced the newest addition to its award-winning storage solution line, the miniStack v3 'Quad Interface' powered hub storage solution with up to 1.0 TB of storage capacity, for Plug n' Play ease of use with any Mac or PC with an available FireWire 800/400, USB 2.0, or eSATA port.

'Quad Interface' Benefits

With an ergonomically unique rear and side port configuration of one eSATA, two FireWire 800, one FireWire 400, and three USB 2.0 ports, miniStack v3 lets users connect multiple desktop digital accessories like scanners, printers, memory card readers, digital cameras, and iPods simultaneously and clutter-free. Its port flexibility and compact design also makes miniStack v3 an ideal portable external hard drive storage solution to move among multiple systems for future system compatibility.

Fast & Vast for the Modern Digital Lifestyle

miniStack v3 is ideal for data intensive uses like audio/video editing, digital photography, MP3 libraries and high-speed back up because it utilizes the latest generation Oxford 924 bridge chipset, the fastest drive mechanisms available, and an eSATA port to deliver the fastest single drive data transfer rates possible - up to 150 Megabytes per second. And with vast storage capacities up to 1.0 TB, users can store up to 1 million JPEG photos or 350,000 MP3 songs on miniStack v3 depending upon file settings/preferences.

Award-Winning Origins

A passive radiator heat sink, intelligent thermal monitoring, Whisper Quiet Operation engineering, and stackable design are just a few of the features miniStack v3 shares with the NewerTech miniStack v2, winner of Macworld Magazine "Top Product," MacAddict Magazine "Editor's Choice," and 123macmini.com "Accessory of the Year" honors.

Maximum Features in a Mini Footprint

  • Up to 1.0 TB (1,000 GB) of bootable disk capacity
  • Up to 32 MB of data cache
  • Oxford OXUF924DSb bridge chipset with Native Command Queuing (NCQ) for optimum drive performance.
  • 6.5" x 6.5" x 1.5" size
  • One eSATA port (rear)
  • Two FireWire 800 (1394b) 9 pin ports (rear)
  • One FireWire 400 (1394a) 6 pin port (side)
  • Three USB 2.0/1.1 'A' ports (2 rear, 1 side)
  • External AutoSwitching 100~240v 50/60 Hz 3 amp UL listed power adapter
  • Auto-Power on/off automatically with computer
  • Intelligent thermal monitoring for minimal fan power consumption and Whisper Quiet operation
  • 36" FireWire 800 connecting cable, 12" FireWire 800-400 interconnecting cable and 36" USB 2.0/1.1 connecting cable
  • Kensington Security Slot

System Requirements

miniStack v3 is compatible with Apple OS 8.6 to 9.2.2, OS X 10.1.x and later (10.2 or later required for FW800 and USB 2.0), and Windows ME and later operating systems. It includes a $200 retail value utility software bundle comprised of ProSoft Engineering Data Backup 3, NovaStor NovaBACKUP, and Intech SpeedTools Utilitiesú

Seven Models Up to 1.0 TB Starting at $169.99

miniStack v3 is available in seven preconfigured 7200 RPM solutions, from 160 GB to 1.0 TB (1,000 GB), priced starting at $169.99 MSRP from NewerTech's exclusive distributor, Other World Computing, as well as through the retail channel. The 0 GB "Add Your Own Drive" kit is also available for $119.99 MSRP.

New Belkin USB Hubs Conveniently Swivel, Clip-On

Swivel HubPR: Belkin's new USB Hubs make it more convenient to add USB ports to your PC or laptop. The Swivel Hub rotates left, right, up, and down to provide easy port access for plugging in your devices. The Clip-On Hub attaches to the edge of your desk or to a bundle of cords to keep your desk clutter-free. Connect stationary items like your printer and hard drive to the base of the Hub-To-Go. Its detachable 4-port Hub is ideal for connecting a mouse, MP3 player, and flash drives. Then, quickly detach it from its base to take on the road with you.

Swivel Hub (F5U415) - $29.99

  • Adds four Hi-Speed USB 2.0 ports
  • Features 2-way swivel connector; rotates 180 degrees, out of the way of adjacent ports
  • Allows angle-up positioning for easy-access/top-loading
  • Includes power port (power supply also included)
  • Clip-On Hub (F5U416) - $29.99
  • Adds four Hi-Speed USB 2.0 ports
  • Grips to the edge of a surface or a bundle of cables
  • Features 2 patented top-loading USB ports for easy access
  • Includes power port (power supply also included)

Hub-To-GoHub-To-Go (F5U706) - $49.99

  • Adds seven Hi-Speed USB 2.0 ports
  • 4 ports detach from the base to act as a travel hub, while the 3-port base/tray stays on your desk
  • Features a rotating connector on the detachable 4-port hub to keep adjacent ports free
  • Patented top-loading ports make plugging/unplugging devices easy
  • Base stows flash drives, paper clips, and notepads in storage tray
  • Includes power port (power supply also included)
  • Works on table or desks with a thickness not exceeding 1.25 inches.

Availability: Late August 2007 with launches in Asia, Europe, and Australia to follow.

The MiniHitch Multi Mount for Mac mini

MiniHitchPR: Compwave announces it's new and improved second generation MiniHitch Multi Mount.

Expanding on the original MiniHitch VESA mount introduced in 2006, the newly designed, second generation all-in-one mount now provides additional options for mounting a Mac Mini under a shelf, under a desk, or to a wall-stud.

The versatility of this all-in-one mount, means that it can be mounted to virtually any surface eliminating the need for any other mounting solutions.

Other new features introduced with this model, is a thicker, stronger acrylic, new VESA mounting hardware, and a bracing bracket which provides additional security and prevents easy removal of the Mac Mini from the Multi Mount.

MiniHitchThe MiniHitch Multi Mount comes complete with all mounting hardware, and is compatible with a wide variety of LCD computer monitors.

Great New Features

Second generation all-in-one mount extends the versatility of our original MiniHitch and provides new mounting options and features.

In addition to our original VESA mounting solution which allows you to mount your Mac Mini on the back of a computer monitor, you can now mount your Mac Mini under a shelf, under a desk, to a wall-stud or virtually any other surface.

That's not all! The MiniHitch Multi Mount can also be used as stand-alone protective shell for your Mac Mini; looks great upright or flat on top of a desk!

Reclaim Your Desk Space with Style

Elegant design enhances the beauty of the Mac Mini and won't detract from your decor.

More Secure

New thicker acrylic shell design with bracing bracket prevents easy removal of your Mac Mini as well as protects it from scratches.

Complete Mounting Solution

MiniHitchThe MiniHitch Multi Mount comes complete with all mounting hardware. Special attention has been given to the VESA mounting hardware to ensure compatibility with a wide variety of LCD computer monitors.

More Choices

Also available as a Combo which includes the MiniHitch Multi Mount and the CamHitch which allows you to mount your Mac Mini and iSight on the back of your monitor.

Applications:

  • General space saving in a home or business environment.
  • Educational or commercial environment where increased security is a consideration.
  • Home Theater
  • "All-in-one" computer using your own display keyboard and mouse (BYODKM).
  • Digital Audio workstation setup (DAW).
  • PC/Mac dual system using a KVM switch.
  • In-car mounting.

What's New:

  • Shelf, desk or wall-stud mounting - New center holes for mounting under a shelf, under a desk, a wall-stud or virtually any other surface.
  • Includes all mounting hardware - Includes hardware for all 4 mounting options including VESA Mounting, shelf, Desk and wall-stud mounting.
  • New wall mounting plate (not shown) - New acrylic mounting plate for proper bracing to a wall, shelf or desk.
  • Bracing Bracket - New acrylic bracket braces your Mac Mini within the MiniHitch Multi Mount.
  • New thicker 1/4" clear cast acrylic - Provides a stronger more secure mount.
  • Preassembled front and back plates - Preassembled screws and screw retainers on front and back acrylic plates for easy assembly and mounting in any orientation.
  • New VESA mounting hardware (not shown) - New aluminum VESA spacers and retainers makes mounting to the back of a monitor even easier.

The MiniHitch Multi Mount is available immediately for US$47.95 directly from Compwave.

Quicky-PCI Triples Power Mac Wireless Speed

Quicky-PCIPR: QuickerTek introduces an exciting wireless upgrade for users of PCI Power Macs who want 802.11n wireless speed. PCI nQuicky triples wireless range and speed of the previous 802.11g wireless specification. nQuicky PCI eliminates the need to buy a new Mac just to get 802.11n wireless. nQuicky PCI delivers 802.11n wireless for $149.95 .

The nQuicky PCI offers the latest wireless benefits, yet retains backward compatibility with previous 802.11 wireless standards - all IEEE 802.11 b/g/n networks and performs to it's full speed 300 Mbps potential across the 2.4 GHz frequency with 802.11n rated network hardware. This compatibility includes all Apple AirPort models - but users get the highest possible speeds when connecting to an AirPort N Base Station.

nQuicky PCI Compatibility

Any Power Mac with a free PCI slot, including: Power Mac G3;

  • Power Mac G4;
  • Power Mac G5

System requirements: Mac OS X version 10.4 or higher;

Like most QuickerTek products, the nQuicky PCI is backed with a one-year warranty on parts and labor.

Navizon Turns Your Mac Into a Navigation System

PR: Mexens Technology has announced the availability of Navizon for any WiFi or Bluetooth enabled computer. Navizon is a positioning system that works by triangulating signals from WiFi and/or Cellular towers. It is based on a community of users mapping the wireless landscape in their area and collecting WiFi and Cell towers locations all around the world. Once the data collected is shared with the rest of the network, everyone can benefit from Navizon's virtual GPS, even on devices that do not include a GPS chip.

"The addition of this new version of Navizon is a very exciting development" said Cyril Houri, founder and CEO of Mexens Technology. "Now, anyone with a laptop computer can join the community and benefit from all the amazing features offered by Navizon that where until now only available on expensive GPS equipment. And best of all, this new version is free."

In addition to PCs and Macs, Navizon is also available on a wide range of mobile platforms such as Windows Mobile, Blackberry, Symbian and many Java phones. With Navizon you can:

  • see your position on a map
  • see the whereabouts of your loved ones
  • get directions to your next destination
  • leave spatial annotations that you can share with the rest of the community

all of this, whether you have a GPS device or not. If you do have a GPS device however, Navizon can even earn you money thanks to its rewards program compensating data contributors.

Mexens Technology was founded in early 2005 by a group of veterans in geolocation technology. The Navizon network was launched in September of 2005 and hasn't stopped growing since then. It is now composed of 60,000 mobile users in more than 60 countries.

Sonnet Keyboard Cover for Apple Desktop Keyboards

Sonnet Carapace Keyboard CoverPR: Sonnet Technologies announces the Carapace keyboard cover for Apple desktop keyboards. Like Carapace for MacBook Pro and MacBook, Carapace for Apple desktop keyboards is made of high-quality silicone with a proprietary coating. Compared to traditional sticky silicone skins, the unique Sonnet coating provides the dual benefits of being antistatic so as not to attract dust, and having a more natural feel so as to feel comfortable even during long typing periods. Carapace is custom-molded to fit each key, yet allows normal typing. Compatible with US and international keyboards, Carapace for Apple USB and wireless keyboards is easy to install and remove, withstands heavy typing and prolonged use, and is simply washable with soap and water.

With gleaming white keys set in clear trays, Apple desktop keyboards have a bright, modern look. However, they also show dust and dirt more readily than black keyboards. Carapace keeps Apple keyboards looking clean and new. With Carapace in place, typing speed and accuracy are unaffected - its thin, flexible construction provides a clear view of the keys and dampens the sound of keystrokes.

Carapace for Apple Keyboard and Apple Wireless Keyboard (part number KP-AKB) will be available July 5, 2007 for the retail price of $19.95.

For more information on Carapace for Apple Keyboard and Apple Wireless Keyboard, visit the Sonnet website.

Canon SELPHY CP740 Compact Photo Printer Fits in the Palm of Your Hand

PR: Scrapbookers and digital photographers have a new reason to celebrate: Canon USA, Inc. has just announced an addition to their compact photo printer lineup that prints superb digital images that can last for years to come.

Designed to make printing images a breeze, the SELPHY CP740 Compact Photo Printer features a two-inch color LCD display, redeye correction and multiple direct printing options that can enable anyone to make amazing prints without a computer.

"This printer is ideal for anyone who hopes to produce long-lasting memories with no hassle," said Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon USA "Especially with the popularity of scrapbooks, crafting, and even personalized postcards printed while on vacation, the SELPHY CP740 Compact Photo Printer can make great quality prints and postcards. And, at an estimated selling price just under $1001, it's an affordable way to make memories that last."

A Personal Photo Lab

The SELPHY CP740 Compact Photo Printer exemplifies Canon's commitment to making user-friendly products. The two-inch color LCD screen enables consumers to view their images and select only their favorite images to print. Say hello to reducing redeye with the Canon's redeye correction technology. Improving those evil-eyed shots is a snap as the SELPHY CP740 Compact Photo Printer automatically detects and helps to correct redeye problems. Photos of people are therefore enhanced before users hit "print."

In addition to being compact and lightweight, the SELPHY CP740 Compact Photo Printer prints borderless, full-photo lab quality, 4"x6" image in approximately 58 seconds.

A Scrapbooker's Delight

The SELPHY CP740 Compact Photo Printer is perfect for consumers who prefer the ease of printing their pictures from home, and it is ideal for scrapbookers who want the flexibility of printing as they create. With the SELPHY CP740 Compact Photo printer, Canon makes it easier for crafters to tote their own printer to cropping parties and scrapbooking events. Consumers can create their scrapbook page layout or project templates, and then print exactly the images they need on the spot. It is as simple as inserting a compatible memory card into the printer, selecting the image to print and letting the SELPHY CP740 Compact Photo Printer do the rest.

When used with compatible genuine Canon high quality paper and ink, the SELPHY CP740 Compact Photo Printer produces images that resist fading for up to 100 years when placed in an archival photo album, so photos can be enjoyed for generations.

The SELPHY CP740 Compact Photo Printer will be available this fall for an estimated selling price of $99.99.

Newest Pocket Drive for Fast 2.5" SATA Drives

PR: The popular ToughTech is now super tiny! We have taken the ToughTech's rugged and attractive aluminum case and resized it to fit smaller 2.5" SATA drives - the kind of drive you would find in many modern laptops. Its Oxford 924 chipset gives you the fastest speeds for connections to your computer via FireWire 800, FireWire 400 or USB.

The Pocket Drive Case transports the ToughTech mini or ComboGB with style and durability. The high quality black leatherette case emblazoned with the WiebeTech logo is perfect for storing and protecting small 2.5" drive enclosures. And the sturdy Velcro flap keeps enclosures snugly tucked away until needed. Keep your files safe and portable with the attractive convenience of a WiebeTech Pocket Drive Storage Case.

The Pocket Case is included FREE with the purchase of a ComboGB or ToughTech mini with preinstalled, preformatted notebook drives.

Small Size

Not much bigger than a pack of playing cards, ToughTech mini will easily travel with you. ToughTech mini will fit in shirt pockets and briefcases with ease.

Accepts SATA drives

SATA drives are becoming more popular. They're faster, and they work with the faster Oxford 924 chipset found in ToughTech mini. This chipset ensures you the fastest FireWire and USB speeds available.

Connects to almost any Computer

With a triple interface, you'll be able to hook it to practically any computer out there. ToughTech mini provides dual FireWire 800 ports, a single FireWire 400 port and single USB 2.0 port. As a result, you can connect it to any computer running any recent operating system.

ToughTech XE mini has every connection type ToughTech mini has, with one addition: A combo eSATA/USB 2.0 port.

To make sure you can connect in any situation, three different cables and adapters are included: A FireWire 800 cable, a FireWire 400 cable, and a USB 2 cable. The ToughTech mini XE comes with an extra cable, a FireWire 800 to 400 converter cable.

ToughTech mini is bootable in FireWire mode on any Mac or PC that supports this feature.

Tough Performance

And it's fast! Configure ToughTech mini with a 7200 RPM drive and there is no performance difference between ToughTech mini and our other 7200 RPM drive enclosures.

ToughMount Anti-Shock Protection

ToughMount strips are mounted between the drive and the enclosure to protect the drive from shock and reduce enclosure noise.

Plug and play

ToughTech mini works out of the box with no new drivers needed with any modern operating system including Mac OS 9.1, 9.2, OS X and Windows 2K, XP, as well as any distribution of Linux that supports FireWire or USB. If using FireWire, additional FireWire devices can be daisy-chained through ToughTech mini.

AC Adapter

Most FireWire ports have juice to power ToughTech mini, so most users prefer to use ToughTech mini without an AC adapter for maximum portability. For users who prefer an AC adapter or who must use one with their setup, ToughTech mini comes with an AC adapter.

You will need an AC adapter if the port you use does not provide enough power for ToughTech mini. This includes all 4 pin FireWire hosts (such as Sony iLink which provides no power at all), eSATA ports (which provide no power) and USB ports.

Features

  • Lots of Ports
    • TTM: Dual daisy-chainable FireWire 800, 400 and Single FireWire 400 and USB 2.0. ports.
    • TTXEM: Dual daisy-chainable FireWire 800 (400 compatible), and a combination eSATA/USB 2.0 port.
  • Power Access LED - Indicate power is on (or off).
  • Drive Capacities - Available with 2.5" SATA drives or install your own.
  • Extremely Fast Transfer Rates - With the Oxford 924 chipset, FireWire 800 outperforms many older desktop FireWire drives when configured with a 7200 RPM drive.
  • Aluminum Construction - Made of tough, durable aluminum. Provides excellent thermal efficiency.
  • ToughMount Anti-Shock Protection - Protects drive from shock and reduces enclosure noise.
  • Small Size - Take it anywhere, fits in your pocket.
  • World-compatible AC Adapter (optional) - Accepts 100-240VAC so you can trot the globe.
  • Interface - FireWire 800, 400 and USB 2.0 utilizing latest Oxford 924 chipset.

Data Speeds

  • FireWire 800: 800 Mbps
  • FireWire 400: 400 Mbps
  • USB 2.0: 480 Mbps
  • eSATA: up to 1.5 Mbps

Drive Compatibility

Operating System

  • Windows 2K, XP
  • Mac OS X
  • Linux distribution that support FireWire

Prices start at $109.95

Plextor Announces 18x DVD±R Burner with USB 2.0 and FireWire Interfaces

PR: Plextor LLC has announced the immediate availability of the PX-810UF DVD Super Multi Drive. This external drive combines the 18x DVD±R and 12x DVD-RAM performance of Plextor's PX-810 Series drives with the convenience and portability of USB and FireWire interfaces.

The PX-810UF features a dual interface with Hi-Speed USB and IEEE 1394 (FireWire), enabling users in a small office or professional studio to share a single external high-performance DVD/CD burner among multiple Apple Macintosh and Microsoft Windows-based PCs. Burst data transfer rates of 480 Mbps (USB 2.0) or 400 Mbps (FireWire) allow a user to burn a 4.7 GB DVD+R disc in approximately six minutes.

The new Plextor drive also includes a previously announced bundle of value-added software applications for common tasks such as data backup, video editing, and DVD authoring, however Macintosh software is not included with this model.

"The new PX-810UF delivers a solid value proposition for customers," said Michael Arbisi, vice president of channel sales for Plextor. "The combination of performance, share-ability, and price is outstanding. Everything you need to get started is included with the PX-810UF, including best-of-breed software applications that enable the average user to begin authoring DVDs and editing videos within minutes of removing the drive from its packaging."

PX-810UF DVD±R/RW Drive

Plextor's PX-810UF external multi-drive delivers fast DVD recording speeds of 18x DVD±R on single-layer media, 10x DVD±R on Double-Layer and Dual-Layer (DL) media, and 12x DVD-RAM. The drive also supports 8x DVD+RW, 6x DVD-RW, 16x max DVD-ROM, 48x CD-R/ROM, 32x CD-RW, 12x DVD-RAM. DVD±VR is supported for direct disc recording, while DVD+RW background format eliminates the need to manually format a DVD+RW disc.

The PX-810UF multi-drive is fully compatible with the new Windows Vista operating system. The drive features a 2 MB buffer and Buffer Underrun Proof Technology to prevent buffer underrun errors and allow multitasking.

Expanded Software Bundle

The PX-810UF includes a new bundle of quality software applications that enable customers to begin using the drive immediately, without any additional purchases:

The award-winning Roxio Easy Media Creator 9 software suite for burning video, music, photos, and data to DVD or CD.

MvDVD Video Authoring for creating DVD discs using video devices, multimedia clips, and pictures.

VIDEOWAVE Video Editing for creating professional looking videos by removing unwanted scenes, recording content, and applying special effects.

CinePlayer DVD-Video Playback for playing all DVD-ROM movies, DVD, and VCD titles. Uses any resolution or color depth video display.

BackUp MyPC Archive and Backup software for backing up individual files or an entire system by transferring data to discs or a hard drive.

Pricing and Availability

Plextor's PX-810UF drive ships to distributors in North and South America in July 2007, with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $139.00 . All retail packages include one-year full warranty and unlimited toll-free technical support.

Software

Mac Data Recovery Software Released

PR: Recover Data announces the launch of Recover Data for Mac. To facilitate the Apple Mac user, we have launched Data Recovery Software for Mac Operating System i.e. Recover Data for Mac.

Need for Data Recovery Software rapidly arises in recent years with the growth of use of electronically documents and data for storing vital and crucial data at a large in a computer System. This Computer System may get crashed where the important data resides or data may be lost due to various reasons.

In most of the data loss situations, inadvertent or accidental file deletions are commonplace events. Data loss creates huge hard ships to the continuity of any business and inconvenience to the user. Keeping this in a view, Recover Data started the make of Mac Data recovery Software and finally releases the Recover Data for Mac 1.0. No doubt at all, market is flooded with many and abundant varieties of Data Recovery Software, there is hardly any software ensuring complete Mac data recovery solution to the lost or deleted data and proves to be easy application in the hands of end user. Recover Data for Mac ensures complete data recovery and which can be used by everyone in few mouse clicks.

Recover Data for Mac recovers deleted, lost files from Apple Mac Operating System based HFS and HFS+ Volumes. The Software also recovers lost music files, photos, movies files lost due to a virus attack, power supply failure, or program bugs. Recover Data for Mac supports data recovery from all major and popular storage devices or removable media Secure Digital, iPods, iPod Mini, iPod first generation and iPod nano, Compact Flash, Memory Stick, ZIP drives, USB Hard drives, SATA Drives, IDE Drives etc. Recover Data for Mac is Windows Based Software i.e. The Software runs only on Windows Operating System. The Software is compatible with Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows NT, Windows 2000, Windows 2003 Server, and Windows XP.

With Recover Data for Mac you are just four steps away from your vital, crucial and confidential data. No need to take your system anywhere for data recovery in case of data loss. Just install this software and enjoy the retrieval of lost files and folders.

The Recover Data for Mac is available at http://www.recoverdatasoftware.com/recover-mac-files for free evaluation.

The evaluation or Demo version of Recover Data for Mac recovers files but restricts the File saving option.

LutherSoft's theWord Reads the Bible to You from Mac or iPod

Spread theWord. It's free.

LutherSoft have announced the release of their latest software program, theWord.

theWord is an audio Bible, unlike any other you may have used before. Instead of simply being a recording of someone reading the Bible, theWord uses Apple's powerful voice synthesis to "read" the Bible to you. Using it's built in database, theWord can navigate to the exact book, chapter, and verse you want to hear.

Because it uses voice syntheses, instead of recordings, it is a very small download, and does not use excess space on your computer. A traditional audio bible recording can span many CDs. This also allows us to offer this software to you for FREE.

A traditional audio recording of the Bible also makes it difficult to listen to your favorite passages. It is broken up in to tracks based on the chapter. theWord can index the entire Bible by verse, so you can pinpoint the passage you want to hear, and create a "bookmark" of that passage. You can store many bookmarks in a playlist called "my bookmarks".

If you have no experience with The Bible, theWord includes many built in playlists with suggested readings, historical highlights, helpful passages. With the built in daily reading calendar, you can listen to the entire Bible in one year without any problem. Put it on your iPod, and you could listen to it during your commute, at the gym, or whenever.

Playlists

Along the left hand side of the window are the playlists. These are all built in, and can't be edited, except for "my bookmarks". These playlists are included here to help you if you have no experience with the Bible. The playlists include: (list them and describe)

  • Suggested Readings
  • Historical Highlights
  • Spiritual Standards
  • Dynamic Doctrines
  • Practical Precepts
  • Help in Time of Need
  • Practical Teachings
  • Where to Find help
  • Life's Problems
  • Christian Virtues
  • Bible Reading Calendar - theWord includes daily bible readings for both the Old Testament and the New Testament
  • My Bookmarks - Your own favorites
  • Bookmarks - Each playlist contains bookmarks, which are specific Bible passages. When you select a playlist, the bookmarks are displayed in the bookmark table. When you double-click abookmark, it is loaded into the "current passage"
  • Current Passage - This displays the current book, chapter, and verse of the current passage being read

Controls

  • Play/Pause - This starts and stops the reading. Reading always starts from the beginning of a verse
  • Forward/Reverse - These move the reading marker forward and backward by one verse for each time it is clicked

Voices

There are many voices built into the Mac OS. Use this menu to chose one. Recommended is "vicki", as it is the most natural voice.

Freeware

VMware Fusion 1.0 RC1 Build 50460 Released

PR: Run multiple operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and Solaris, on your Macintosh at the same time as Mac OS X - without rebooting. Designed from the ground up for the Mac, VMware Fusion allows you to run Mac and Windows applications side-by-side - quickly and effortlessly sharing information between the two operating systems' environments.

For a limited time, VMware Fusion is available for pre-order for $39.99, a 50% savings over the suggested retail price of $79.99 when VMware Fusion is released for general availability.

Run Windows applications just like Mac applications

Say good-bye to the Windows desktop and use the VMware Fusion Launch Palette or Spotlight to easily launch your Windows applications. Switch between all your Windows and Mac applications using Exposé. Keep your favorite applications in the Dock, bring forward only the application you care about, and use your familiar Mac keyboard shortcuts the whole time.

Turn back time on your PC

Capture and save the exact state of your virtual machine with VMware Fusion's innovative Snapshot feature. If your Windows virtual machine becomes unresponsive, use the Snapshot feature to rollback to a known stable state with the click of a button.

Get the most out of your Mac hardware

Take full advantage of 64-bit and multicore processors of your Mac for maximum flexibility. You can run 64-bit operating systems such as Windows Vista Ultimate 64-bit Edition or leverage Virtual SMP to create and run multiprocessor virtual machines.

Our cutting-edge 3D technology even lets you to play select DirectX 8.1 games on your Mac. Plus, get full read/write support for CDs and DVDs and complete USB 2.0 support - even for proprietary video cameras, Bluetooth devices and other Windows-only peripherals.

Run multiple operating systems on your Mac with ease

Easily use UNIX-based operating systems such as Linux and Solaris right alongside Windows and Mac OS X, with the ease and simplicity you've come to expect from your Mac. Only VMware Fusion makes it possible to copy and paste text between Mac and Linux or Solaris, or to drag and drop files from the Mac desktop to Linux or Solaris.

Get started today by downloading a ready-to-use virtual appliance including many popular Linux distributions from the VMware Virtual Appliance Marketplace. The Virtual Appliance Marketplace features over 450 preconfigured virtual machines that you can download and use with the click of a button.

The VMware Fusion public beta is a free download and is available now. Additionally, for a limited time, VMware Fusion is available for pre-order for $39.99, which is a 50% savings over the suggested retail price of $79.99 when VMware Fusion is released for general availability. Your Pre-Order will include a final VMware Fusion license key that will be emailed to you immediately and your credit card will be charged. You may use this license key to immediately run the VMware Fusion 1.0 Release Candidate, any future release candidate builds, and the final VMware Fusion 1.0 released product.

Desktop Mac Deals

Low End Mac updates the following price trackers monthly:

For deals on current and discontinued 'Books, see our 13" MacBook and MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, 13" MacBook Pro, 15" MacBook Pro, 17" MacBook Pro, 12" PowerBook G4, 15" PowerBook G4, 17" PowerBook G4, titanium PowerBook G4, iBook G4, PowerBook G3, and iBook G3 deals.

We also track iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, iPod classic, iPod nano, and iPod shuffle deals.

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